Overview
Psydrax schimperiana (A.Rich.) Bridson subsp. occidentalis Bridson, also known as the African pear, is a tree species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and its distribution extends from Sierra Leone to Uganda.
Appearance
The African pear is a perennial evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. It has a straight, slender trunk that can have a diameter of up to 60 cm. The bark is greyish-brown and rough to the touch. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a length of 4-16 cm and a width of 2-7 cm. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a pear-shaped berry that is green when unripe and turns yellow when ripe, with a diameter of 2-5 cm.
Uses
The African pear has several uses, both for food and medicinal purposes. The fruit is edible and has a juicy, sweet pulp that can be eaten raw or used to make jams and jellies. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as magnesium and potassium. The bark and leaves of the tree have medicinal properties and have been used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomach problems. The wood of the tree is used for carving and making furniture, and the tree is also planted as an ornamental.
Conservation
The African pear is not currently listed as an endangered species, but it is threatened by habitat destruction due to deforestation and agricultural activities. Efforts are being made to conserve the species in its natural habitat and to promote sustainable harvesting practices.
Light requirements
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis requires partial shade to full sun exposure. It can grow well in shaded areas but also tolerates direct sunlight, especially during the morning hours.
Temperature requirements
This plant prefers warm, humid conditions and grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. The optimal temperature range for the growth of Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis is between 20-30°C.
Soil requirements
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis requires a well-drained soil with high organic matter content. It grows best in loamy or sandy soils that are rich in nutrients, with a soil pH range of 5.0-6.5. The plant can tolerate some salinity and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.
Cultivation Methods
Psydrax schimperiana (A.Rich.) Bridson subsp. occidentalis Bridson can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It requires well-draining soil, and the soil must be acidic. The plant thrives best in areas with bright, indirect light. It should be grown in locations sheltered from strong winds.
Watering Needs
Watering requirements for Psydrax schimperiana (A.Rich.) Bridson subsp. occidentalis Bridson should be moderate. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The plant can be fertilized once a month using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength. Do not over-fertilize the plant as it may lead to burning or drying out of the roots. The plant can also benefit from occasional applications of organic fertilizers like worm castings or compost.
Pruning
Psydrax schimperiana (A.Rich.) Bridson subsp. occidentalis Bridson requires minimal pruning. Dead and diseased branches should be removed from the plant as soon as they are noticed. Pruning is best done during the growing season, and it is essential to sterilize pruning shears before use to prevent the spread of diseases. The plant can also be pinched back to promote branching and a fuller growth habit.
Propagation of Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis Bridson, commonly known as the West African snow berry, is a flowering plant that is native to tropical and subtropical Africa. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through three major methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest propagation method for Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis is through seed propagation. The seeds should be harvested from ripe berries and sown in a mixture of peat moss and vermiculite. The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 15-20°C (59-68°F). The germination period is usually two to three weeks. The young seedlings can be transplanted into individual containers after four to six weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood stems during the spring and summer. The cutting should have at least one node and two to three leaves. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. Plant the cutting in a mixture of peat moss and perlite and water it regularly. Keep the cutting in a shaded area until it begins to develop roots. After three to four weeks, the cutting can be transplanted into individual containers.
Aerial Layering Propagation
Aerial layering is another propagation method for Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis. Select a stem that is flexible and can reach the ground. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem and make a small incision on the stem. Apply rooting hormone to the incision and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with a plastic wrap to maintain moisture. After four to six weeks, roots should begin to develop. The new plant can be detached from the original plant and transplanted into a container.
Disease management
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis is generally considered to be relatively disease-resistant. However, several fungal and bacterial pathogens can cause diseases in this plant.
One of the most common diseases that affects this plant is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Cercospora psychotriicola. Symptoms include circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves, which may be surrounded by yellowing and premature leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant material and to avoid overhead watering that can promote fungal growth. Fungicides may also be used to manage severe cases.
Another fungal disease that can affect Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis is powdery mildew, which appears as a white or gray powdery coating on leaves and stems. Mildew is usually caused by poor air circulation, so pruning and removing dense branches can aid in prevention of this disease. Fungicides can also be used as a measure to manage this disease.
Pest management
Psydrax schimperiana subsp. occidentalis is susceptible to attacks from several insect pests. One of the most common is the mealybug, a soft-bodied insect that feeds on plant sap and produces a cottony mass that can cover the leaves and stems. Pruning and removing infected parts is an effective way to manage mealybugs. Additionally, regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help control populations of this pest.
The plant may also be attacked by spider mites which may cause yellowing and bronzing of leaves, and webbing on stems and leaves. Severe infestations often lead to defoliation. To prevent and control spider mites, one should avoid overhead watering that may promote their development. Regular washing of the plant will also be useful to reduce their number. If mites are present, the use of miticides may be necessary.
In addition, the plant can be attacked by aphids, which suck the sap and excrete a sugary, sticky substance that can attract other pests and cause fungal growth. Natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and syrphid flies can be useful allies in controlling aphid populations. If populations are severe, applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil may be necessary to control them.
